After a lengthy indefinite shutdown that followed the collapse of the United States residential housing market in 2008, Canfor Corporation has decided to close its historic Rustad Sawmill in Prince George, B.C. and Tackama Mill in Fort Nelson, B.C.

Canfor acquired the Rustad Sawmill in 1999, and operated the facility for 10 years until slowing U.S. lumber demand forced operations to cease in 2009. To that point, the mill had been in continuous operation for 62 years. The Tackama operation in Fort Nelson was part of Canfor’s 2004 acquisition of Slocan Forest Products, and at the time was BC’s largest plywood facility.

Although the decision has been made to cease manufacturing operations at these locations, Canfor is proud to have been part of the impressive legacy both plants had in their communities. Further information will be available over the next several weeks on plans to repurpose portions of the Rustad site for trades training and education.

“Canfor remains fully committed to the BC Interior, the communities of Prince George and Fort Nelson and to our employees,” said CEO Don Kayne. Rustad and Tackama employees will receive statutory payments and severance as negotiated with the United Steelworkers.